Alonso reveals Chelsea fitness boost ahead of Spurs friendly – and suggests more exits are likely following Lacroix signing

Xabi Alonso says Romeo Lavia will be available to face Tottenham in Chelsea’s next pre-season friendly.

The midfielder did not feature in the win over Western Sydney Wanderers because of a hamstring issue.

But the Belgian is back in contention when the Blues take on their rivals in Australia.

“He’s okay for tomorrow,” Alonso said.

Chelsea completed the signing of defender Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace earlier this week, and Alonso says the France international can make an immediate difference to his squad.

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“I know Maxence from my time in Bundesliga, but I think that his progression and his adaptation in the Premier League has been fantastic,” Alonso said. “Not just on the pitch as well, in terms of personality, leadership, he has these attributes.

“A very reliable player that will give us power in the defensive line, that has this assurance to have a direct impact on the team, I’m sure. So it’s a great signing for now and for the future.”

But Alonso expects there to be defensive departures following Lacroix’s arrival, admitting he only wants “four or five” central defenders in his squad.

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